From George Best to Gene Wilder: UK taxi drivers reveal their most memorable celebrity passengers
- Perry Richardson
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
When TaxiPoint asked drivers across the UK to name the most famous celebrity they’ve ever had in their cab, the responses were staggering in both volume and variety. Hundreds of drivers responded, recounting everything from surreal conversations with Hollywood stars to comical tip tales and unexpected backseat guests.
Some drivers had carried global icons. Others claimed encounters with niche figures or long-forgotten names not recognisable to many of today’s youth. The question not only drew a flood of replies but also a string of personal anecdotes, reflections on behaviour, and the sort of stories you only hear from those behind the wheel.
One of the most frequently mentioned names was George Best. Several drivers recalled picking up the legendary footballer, with one saying he had him in the cab twice. Another said simply: “George Best. No roll of honour from me.”
Film and music legends weren’t in short supply either. Drivers reported picking up Tom Cruise, Dustin Hoffman, Roger Moore, Michael Caine, Madonna, John Travolta, Shirley Bassey, Aretha Franklin, Jack Nicholson, Sean Connery, Gene Wilder, and Liam Gallagher, among others.
There were reports of footballing royalty too. Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Gascoigne, Eric Cantona, Gary Lineker, Roy Keane, Ian Rush, Steven Gerrard, and David Beckham all appeared on the list. A number of drivers reported picking up groups of footballers after matches or during events, particularly in cities like Manchester and Liverpool.
Musicians from across the decades also featured heavily. Jimmy Page of Led Zeppelin appeared more than once, along with Ronnie Wood, Boy George, Fatboy Slim, Suzi Quatro, and Dame Shirley Bassey.
Not all tales involved stars from the big screen or football pitch. Other unexpected names included quiz show legends, actors from long-finished soap series, and comedians from Britain’s 1970s club circuit.
Some cabbies praised stars for their warmth and humility. One said Ronnie Barker was “a lovely man”, another called Eric Sykes the “nicest” person they’d had in the cab.
Some licensed drivers refused to answer the question at all. A few drivers, especially those who now work as chauffeurs, pointed to confidentiality and discretion. “A professional chauffeur would never answer this question,” said one.
Others reflected on the unpredictability of the job. One driver said he’s had everyone from David Attenborough to Bill Oddie, and stressed that these moments weren’t staged or scheduled, just part of a normal day on the job.
In a job where each passenger could be anyone, it’s no surprise that taxi drivers hold a rich archive for celebrity stories. Some are funny, some forgettable, others memorable for life.
But as one driver put it best: “They’re just people at the end of the day. Most don’t want a fuss. Just a ride.”
